The basics

Can anyone go antiquing in Ireland?

This opportunity allows individuals, antique dealers, and interior decorators to purchase partial container loads of Irish country antiques. You will be given the names and contact information for many of the antique dealers in Ireland who are off the beaten path. If you are looking for something special, I may be able to point you in the right direction.

Although geared for people in the New England and the tri-state area, anyone may participate. Keep in mind, however, the container is shipped to Deep River, Connecticut and it might not be practical for people living outside this area to participate. Shipping to areas outside the northeast can cost as much as shipping from Ireland. A full container can be shipped from Ireland to anywhere in the USA.

Whether traveling to Ireland for the sole purpose of purchasing antiques or you are on a vacation and would like to have some items shipped to the US, we can help make the process simple.

How does the buying and shipping process work?

Once you arrive at a warehouse you will meet with the owner who will give you some basic information regarding payment. You can then wander around and browse the antiques at your own pace. Simply decide what you would like then buy it directly through the owner. If you are interested in an item but are not sure if you would like to purchase it at that time, make note and it can be added to your purchases at a later date if still available.

If purchasing several items from a smaller dealer, the dealer may give you a discount. Some of the larger warehouses are less likely to give you a discount and are not willing to negotiate price. Look at the product and ask yourself how much it would cost in the USA then make your decision accordingly. When I buy in Ireland, I may purchase a whole load without having to negotiate. Some items will have a price far below what you thought it would be, and other items may seem a bit high. When you average it out, it still remains a good value. There is no reason to beat a dealer down to the last penny, and then ask him for free transport of goods to the shipping site.

Will I have any support while I am in Ireland?

If you have any questions while shopping in Ireland, I can be reached by phone or email. In addition, Joe Lennon Antiques, my primary source and shipping location, as well as other dealers on my Main Sources list, will be happy to assist you.

When will my purchases arrive?

In general, your antiques will arrive within one to three months. When there are enough items purchased to fill a 40’ Container, your shipment will be en route to Deep River. The amount of time needed to fill a container depends on the number of antiques that you and my other clients purchase. A few good clients within a month’s time would have the container in Deep River in approximately one month. Should there be a low response to this program, I will fill the remainder of the container with my own purchases and have the container shipped so that your purchases arrive no later than three months after your antiquing trip.

If you have your own group of friends, dealers, or designers who would like to do some serious buying, let me know. Weeklong, guided tours can be arranged so that your antiques arrive within 21 days of purchase.

Some Examples of total costs:

Item 1: Irish cupboard $700
80” high by ( approx 2 meters)
38” wide by (approx 1 meter)
19” deep (approx .5 meter)

Calculate 2 x 1 x .5 = 1 cubic meter
1 cubic meter is $160 for shipping with a $70 surcharge

Item 2: Pair of night stands $300
These might fit inside the cupboard. Cost of shipping ... NOTHING $30 surcharge

The total paid for 3 items shipped to Deep River $1190. Same items if purchased in my shop would cost $2150

You will have saved $960, had a vast assortment to choose from, and had the experience of antiquing in Ireland.